An Everglades day trip with kids, from Miami Beach
Kids remember the alligator. Long after the hotel pool and the beach blur together, the moment an airboat glides past a gator lying in the sun is the one they talk about. Here's how to make the trip easy for the whole family.
Keep it short and early
For younger kids, a one-hour ride is plenty. Morning departures are cooler and calmer, and you're back in Miami Beach before anyone gets tired.
Private or shared?
On a private airboat, the captain can slow down when the kids spot something and stop for as long as they want to watch. On the shared 1-hour semi-private ride (10 AM, 12 PM or 2 PM), children under 6 ride free and ages 6 to 12 are a reduced price; see current prices on the tours page.
What to bring
- Sunscreen and hats; there's very little shade on the open water
- Water and snacks for everyone
- A light layer for morning rides in winter
- A phone or camera with space for photos
Getting there with kids
If you don't want to deal with car seats and a rental car, the 1.5-hour and 2-hour private tours can include pickup from Miami Beach hotels. Driving yourself? Read how to get from Miami Beach to the Everglades. For ages, safety and what to expect on board, see Airboating with kids on Airboating Everglades.